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Ever wonder why some PR pitches get immediate attention while others languish in crowded inboxes? The secret might be in how you're using—or misusing—research data.

Nathan Richter of Wakefield Research pulls back the curtain on the powerful relationship between public relations and data research, revealing how these disciplines must work in concert rather than as separate functions. With experience on both sides of the equation, Richter speaks directly to the challenges PR professionals face when trying to make their stories stand out.

The conversation tackles a widespread problem in communications: the tendency to equate complexity with sophistication when presenting research. As Richter explains, "Many PR people, when they have data in hand, tend to be extremely excited and eager to publicize it... unfortunately, many equate complexity with sophistication or quality. Nothing could be further from the truth." In an environment where journalists face a barrage of pitches daily, clarity and credibility become your most valuable currency.

Perhaps most valuable is Richter's breakdown of the "broken process" most organizations use to develop research for public consumption. Rather than the common approach of brainstorming questions without clear intention, he advocates for a hypothesis-driven methodology that starts with desired outcomes. This approach triangulates what brands want to communicate, what media wants to hear, and what can actually be discovered through research—creating stories that truly resonate.

For PR professionals looking to elevate their media relations through research, this conversation offers practical guidance on building credibility, avoiding common pitfalls, and developing partnerships with research specialists who understand the unique demands of earned media. Whether you're pitching complex healthcare data or consumer trends, the principles remain the same: simplify, clarify, and validate your story with data that journalists can trust.

Take your PR strategy to the next level by understanding how research can transform from merely supporting content to becoming your strongest competitive advantage in a crowded media landscape.

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I would very like to get a review from you. Please send a note to me. Thanks, Peter! like to much appreciate a review from you!! Thank you!

What happens when the most powerful marketing tool—customer testimonials—is restricted by privacy laws and personal boundaries? Robin Malone, CEO of RJ Communications, pulls back the curtain and shares with host Peter Woolfolk the unique challenges healthcare brands face when trying to showcase real patient stories.

With nearly three decades of experience in healthcare communications, Malone reveals how she's mastered the delicate art of building "trust bridges" between healthcare providers and potential patient advocates. "This can't be transactional," Malone emphasizes. "You have to build the kind of trust that takes time." Her approach focuses on finding what she calls the "loud voices in the room"—those patients already enthusiastic about sharing their experiences—rather than trying to convince reluctant individuals.

The conversation explores the regulatory maze created by HIPAA laws that protect patient privacy while creating significant hurdles for marketers. Malone walks us through the multi-layered permission process required before a PR professional can even contact a potential patient advocate. She shares a fascinating case study where her team successfully reframed a pharmaceutical campaign to focus on patients' lives rather than their medical conditions, creating powerful advocacy without compromising privacy.

For healthcare communicators, marketers, and PR professionals working in regulated industries, this episode offers invaluable insights into building authentic advocacy programs that respect both legal boundaries and personal comfort levels. Malone's hard-earned wisdom demonstrates that the most compelling healthcare stories come from advocates who genuinely want to share—never from those who've been persuaded against their better judgment.

Have you encountered similar challenges in your industry? We'd love to hear your experiences with navigating regulatory hurdles while trying to showcase authentic customer stories.

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I would very like to get a review from you. Please send a note to me. Thanks, Peter! like to much appreciate a review from you!! Thank you!

Ever wondered what truly makes a brand successful in today's crowded marketplace? Alexandria "Alex" Hammond, principal of Brand News, cuts through the noise with powerful clarity on what matters most when establishing and protecting your brand identity.

Hammond reveals to host Peter Woolfolk the two deceptively simple questions every organization must answer before launching any marketing initiative: "Who are you?" and "Why should people care?" These foundational queries serve as guideposts for authentic brand development that resonates with target audiences. She emphasizes the importance of going where your audience already exists rather than expecting them to come to you – a customer-centric approach that fundamentally shifts how brands should think about their presence across platforms.

The conversation delves into practical strategies for integrated marketing, where public relations, social media, and digital content work in harmony rather than silos. Hammond shares valuable insights on content creation, explaining how earned media coverage gains exponential value when strategically repurposed across owned channels. With audiences' shrinking attention spans, she stresses the importance of front-loading compelling information – you typically have just 30 seconds to capture interest before losing your audience.

Perhaps most valuable is Hammond's expertise in brand protection through crisis communications. She advocates for having crisis plans and teams established before issues arise, noting that it's not the crisis itself that defines brand perception, but how an organization responds and recovers. This requires strategic thinking, clear communication channels, and experienced professionals who understand the nuances of reputation management.

Whether you're a startup defining your identity or an established organization looking to strengthen your brand presence, Hammond's practical wisdom offers a roadmap for authentic connection with audiences. Remember her parting advice: brand building is "definitely a marathon, not a sprint." Give yourself time to develop messaging, refine strategies, and build meaningful relationships with your audience. Your brand's story matters – what are you doing to tell it effectively?

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